In May, one person died, and five more were seriously injured when a car exiting from I-5 in Seattle crashed into a barrier on an off ramp at a high speed. Sadly, many off ramp accidents like these can be prevented if only drivers understood the potential dangers of these ramps and the best way to safely navigate them. Here are a few helpful tips that could prevent future accidents, injuries, and deaths:

Note the speed limit and other warnings. The best way to stay safe on an off ramp is to read the posted warnings. Signs on the ramp will let you know what speed is safe and alert you to the curves and intersections ahead.

Look at your speedometer. After driving long distances on the interstate, you can forget just how fast you are going. Check your dashboard to make sure you are slowing down to a safe speed as you exit the interstate.

Watch for slow traffic ahead. Some drivers on off ramps slow down even below the posted speed limit, creating a new hazard. Be wary of slow drivers that you could potentially rear-end.

Be prepared to merge. Some off ramps, especially in cities, guide you immediately onto another interstate or highway. Look at the signage, and be prepared to merge onto another multilane road.

Be prepared to stop. Other off-ramps quickly end with a traffic light or stop sign. Many off ramp accidents take place when cars are going too fast to stop at the intersection and drive into traffic or off the road.